The Silver Ferns have announced they will rest shooter Maia Wilson for next month's FAST5 Netball World Series in Christchurch.
Having had a heavy workload this year - she was involved in the Netball Quad Series earlier this year, the Netball World Cup in South Africa, as well as the Taini Jamison Trophy Series against England and this month’s Constellation Cup against Australia - Silver Ferns coach Dame Noeline Taurua said it was the right time for Wilson to be rested.
“Maia’s workload has been constantly high over the past two years as the Silver Ferns built towards this year’s Netball World Cup in Cape Town,” she said.
“She may have only just turned 26 but Maia has taken on a senior role in the shooting circle for some time now and the responsibilities that come with that. We felt now was a good time to give her a well-deserved break."
The Silver Ferns' shooting circle has become a hot topic for selection this year after Wilson stepped up at the World Cup for an injured Grace Nweke.
While Nweke was out, the Silver Ferns also introduced teen rookie Amelia Walmsley to play alongside captain Ameliaranne Ekenasio before Nweke made her return against the Diamonds earlier this month.
However, Taurua confirmed Georgia Heffernan would replace Wilson in the FAST5 Ferns, adding next month's world series will be a strong opportunity for the Southern Steel shooter to take on the world's best.
"Georgia is a member of our Silver Ferns development squad and we felt this was another chance for her to show her attacking abilities in what is a highly competitive and high-tempo FAST5 tournament," she said.
"She had a strong presence with the FAST5 Ferns last year and we’re looking forward to seeing the skills that she will bring to the Netball World Series in Christchurch."
The FAST5 Ferns will be coached by Marianne Delaney-Hoshek and take on Australia, South Africa, England, Jamaica, and Malawi over two days on November 11 and 12.
SHARE ME